Breakfast Fried Rice Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that combines the comforting flavors of a classic breakfast with the satisfying heartiness of fried rice, this Breakfast Fried Rice recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a vibrant medley of crispy bacon, fluffy scrambled eggs, and colorful veggies all tossed with savory soy sauce and a hint of toasted sesame oil. Perfectly simple yet packed with texture and flavor, this dish is a fantastic way to start your day or enjoy a leftover rice transformation that never feels boring. Trust me, once you try this Breakfast Fried Rice, it might just become your favorite morning treat or anytime comfort food.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering a few straightforward ingredients is all it takes to bring this Breakfast Fried Rice to life. Each component plays an essential role—from the smoky bacon that adds crunch and richness, to the tender scrambled eggs creating a fluffy texture, and the fresh vegetables that brighten the dish with flavor and color.

• Bacon, 6 slices, chopped: Adds irresistible smokiness and a satisfying crisp texture.
• Large eggs, 4: Provide a soft, fluffy element that balances the saltiness.
• Kosher salt, ¼ teaspoon: Important for seasoning the eggs gently.
• Ground pepper, ¼ teaspoon: Gives a subtle spicy kick to the eggs.
• Butter, 2 tablespoons: Brings richness and helps soften the onions beautifully.
• White onion, 1 medium, diced: Offers sweetness and depth after sautéing.
• Garlic, 2 cloves, minced: Injects a fragrant warmth enhancing the overall profile.
• Cold cooked rice, 3 cups: The base of the dish—using chilled rice helps keep the grains separate and less mushy.
• Soy sauce, 3 tablespoons: Brings umami and saltiness essential to fried rice.
• Toasted sesame oil, 2 teaspoons: Adds a nutty aroma that makes the dish irresistible.
• Frozen peas and carrots, 1 cup: Pops of sweetness and vibrant color.
• Frozen corn, ½ cup: Adds extra sweetness and texture contrast.
• Green onions, 4, sliced: Freshens the dish with a mild onion bite and beautiful green hues.

How to Make Breakfast Fried Rice

Step 1: Crisp the bacon

Start with a cold skillet to render the bacon’s fat properly—this ensures it crisps up evenly. As the bacon cooks over medium heat, the sizzling sound and aroma fill the kitchen with anticipation. Once golden and crisp, transfer it to paper towels to drain, leaving behind flavorful fat in the pan.

Step 2: Scramble the eggs gently

Using the reserved bacon fat, swirl the beaten eggs around the pan for a creamy, scrambled texture. The technique of cooking in cycles, lightly scraping and folding, helps create tender, soft curds rather than dry or rubbery eggs. Set these perfect scrambled eggs aside for the final mix.

Step 3: Sauté onions and garlic

Turn the heat up to medium-high and melt butter in the skillet. Toss in the diced onion, cooking until translucent and sweet — about 5 to 6 minutes. When the onion releases its natural sugars, add the garlic for about one minute, stirring constantly, to unlock its fragrant magic without allowing it to burn.

Step 4: Fry the rice

Add the cold rice to the pan, tossing it with the onion and garlic to coat every grain. Press the mixture evenly into the pan and let it cook undisturbed for a few minutes, allowing a slight crust to form, giving the dish delightful texture contrasts.

Step 5: Build flavors with soy sauce and veggies

Pour the soy sauce over the rice and use a wooden spoon to gently loosen and incorporate it evenly without breaking the rice grains. Toss in the frozen peas, carrots, and corn along with toasted sesame oil, stirring frequently until the vegetables warm through and the rice looks dry rather than sticky or clumpy.

Step 6: Combine it all

Take the skillet off the heat and stir in the crispy bacon, fluffy scrambled eggs, and fresh green onions. This final mix brings all the textures and flavors into perfect harmony, creating a dish that’s as delightful to look at as it is to eat.

How to Serve Breakfast Fried Rice

Garnishes

To elevate your Breakfast Fried Rice, sprinkle extra sliced green onions or even toasted sesame seeds on top. A drizzle of additional soy sauce or a dash of chili flakes can add a personal touch of flavor and a hint of visual appeal that makes serving feel special.

Side Dishes

This dish is hearty enough to stand alone, but if you’re looking to round out your meal, consider pairing it with fresh fruit, a light Asian-inspired salad, or some crispy tofu for extra protein variety. Kimchi or pickled vegetables also bring a refreshing tang that complements the richness beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve your Breakfast Fried Rice inside hollowed-out bell peppers or scooped into lettuce cups. You might also try topping with a fried egg with a runny yolk for extra indulgence. Presenting it family-style on a large platter invites everyone to dig in and share the joy.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, move any leftover Breakfast Fried Rice into an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It will stay good for up to 3 days, making it an excellent choice for quick breakfasts or lunches throughout the week.

Freezing

You can freeze this dish for up to a month. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, making sure to squeeze out excess air. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge for the best texture retention.

Reheating

Reheat the fried rice gently in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or oil to prevent drying out. Alternatively, a microwave is convenient but stir halfway through to heat evenly. Freshen it up with a sprinkle of green onions after reheating to revive the flavors.

FAQs

Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?

Absolutely! Fresh peas, carrots, and corn work beautifully in this recipe. Just chop and sauté them along with the onions to soften before adding the rice. Frozen vegetables are a handy shortcut but fresh ones add a lovely texture.

What type of rice works best for Breakfast Fried Rice?

Day-old cooked white rice with grains that are separated and a bit dry is ideal. This prevents the dish from becoming mushy. Jasmine rice or any long-grain rice is perfect, but leftover rice from the fridge is your best friend here.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes! Skip the bacon and use extra veggies or plant-based bacon alternatives. For extra savory depth, consider adding a dash of mushroom soy sauce or smoked paprika to mimic some smoky notes.

Is there a way to make it spicier?

Definitely! Add crushed red pepper flakes when cooking onions or serve with chili sauce on the side. Freshly chopped chili peppers or a drizzle of Sriracha will give the dish a bold kick.

How can I add more protein?

Besides bacon and eggs, you could stir in cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu pieces. Cooking these first and adding at the same stage as the veggies ensures they warm through evenly with the rice.

Final Thoughts

This Breakfast Fried Rice is one of those magical dishes that feels like a warm hug in a bowl—comforting, flavorful, and endlessly adaptable. Whether you want a quick morning meal or a creative way to use leftovers, this recipe delivers every single time. Give it a try, share with your loved ones, and enjoy the cozy delight of your new favorite breakfast tradition.

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